Leadership in surgery and healthcare requires more than technical expertise; it demands self-awareness, confidence, adaptability, and the skills to navigate complex challenges. Yet, traditional medical training offers limited support for developing these critical skills. Professional coaching bridges this gap by providing structured, evidence-based support tailored to the unique demands of healthcare leadership. This is particularly valuable for professionals transitioning from training to consultant roles, as well as those taking on leadership responsibilities or navigating other career stages. This presentation will explore how coaching differs from mentoring and training, and how it helps healthcare professionals overcome self-doubt, manage competing demands, and enhance leadership effectiveness. Drawing on real-world experiences, it will highlight coaching’s impact on leadership development, resilience, and performance, with practical advice on how to engage with coaching to support healthcare leaders at various stages of their careers.